Meibomian Gland Dysfunction And Dry Eye
Meibomian glands also called tarsal glands are modified sebaceous ( oil glands) .A single row of Meibomian Glands (MG) is present in both the upper and lower lids slightly behind the eyelashes. There are around 35 -40 glands in the upper lid and 30-35 glands in the lower lid. These glands secrete oil ( sebum ) which forms the uppermost layer of the tear film, protecting it ( water of the tears) from evaporation into the environment. If this oil is deficient or abnormal in quality, the tear film will not be stable on the ocular surface, leading to dryness or desiccation of the external eye surface. Peristent dryness can result in redness, itching, discharge, watering, transient blurring of vision, headache,and also discontinuity in the external layers ( cornea and conjunctiva). The common causes of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) are increased age, improper hygiene, excessive screen hours, contact lens wear, eye rubbing, smoking. MGD is twice ...